Last week, a prophet of God enjoined the whole world to end conflict.
He spoke most importantly of personal conflict.
Brothers and sisters, is to end conflicts that are raging in your heart, your home, and your life. Bury any and all inclinations to hurt others—whether those inclinations be a temper, a sharp tongue, or a resentment for someone who has hurt you
The Power of Spiritual Momentum, Russell M. Nelson. General Conference, April 2022.
If we are to truly end personal conflict, is there also a need to end fake or contrived conflict?
Is there truly a benefit to sports competition? Maybe. But probably only within the context of not getting carried away by it.
And most people seem to get carried away by it.
How many parents lack precious teaching time with their children because “maybe she can get a college scholarship”?
How many parent set bad example of personal interaction by screaming at refs, fans, coaches, or players?
How many players ignore God and their relationship with Him because their sport is their object of worship?
There is nuance, I’m sure. But these are the questions we don’t take time to ask ourselves.